monocoque

noun mono·coque \ ˈmä-nə-ˌkōk , -ˌkäk \

Updated on: 20 Apr 2018

Definition of monocoque

1 : a type of construction (as of a fuselage) in which the outer skin carries all or a major part of the stresses

2 : a type of vehicle construction (as of an automobile) in which the body is integral with the chassis

Recent Examples of monocoque from the Web

Genesis says the packaging versatility of the lightweight carbon-fiber monocoque and electric powertrain allowed its designers to create a car with a low profile and classic GT proportions.

— andrew wendler, Car and Driver, "Genesis Essentia Concept: High-Tech Coupe Dreams," 29 Mar. 2018
In addition to the carbon body, the Ren RS uses a carbon-fiber monocoque and claims a 4087-pound dry weight.

— tony markovich, Car and Driver, "Techrules’ Track-Running Ren RS Turbine-Hybrid Supercar Has 1287 HP and One Seat," 6 Mar. 2018
This two seat coupe is designed for light weight as well, boasting a carbon fiber monocoque and body constructed by Aston Martin's body partner Multimatic.

— terry troy, cleveland.com, "Local GMC dealers embrace "Like a Pro"," 8 Oct. 2017
The airplane-like cockpit, tucked inside an all-carbon-fiber monocoque shell, brings everything within easy reach of the pilot.

— charles fleming, Detroit Free Press, "2017 Lamborghini Aventador S: How does 145 m.p.h. feel in a $483K car?," 5 Oct. 2017
The body is crafted from carbon fiber, forming a lightweight and rigid monocoque structure.

— csaba csere, Car and Driver, "Mercedes-AMG Project One," 11 Sep. 2017
At the top end of the market, Qoros is pushing forward with the K-EV sedan, a fully electric, 870-hp performance luxury sedan with an extremely stiff carbon-fiber monocoque.

— jens meiners, Car and Driver, "Forever Young: Qoros Unveils Crossover and More at Chengdu Show," 28 Aug. 2017
The car’s 3,000-pound curb weight — due in large part to the carbotanium monocoque — contributes to that utterly bonkers straight-line performance.

— wes siler, WIRED, "Pagani’s Latest Lustworthy Car Comes to America," 10 Aug. 2011
The wheels are kept on the ground by a very stiff carbon fiber monocoque body and an advanced suspension system.

— charles fleming, latimes.com, "Driving the world's fastest, most luxurious supercar — the $3-million Bugatti Chiron," 9 June 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'monocoque.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of monocoque

French, from mon- + coque shell, probably from Latin coccum kermes — more at cocoon

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First Known Use: 1913

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monocoque

Definition of monocoque

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